The Vermont Country Store is a well-known retail business that specializes in nostalgic, hard-to-find, and practical goods. Founded in 1946, it has grown from a small mail-order catalog into a significant cultural destination with two physical stores in Vermont and a robust online presence. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what you can find at the store, how to shop their inventory, and why they remain a staple of American retail history.
The History of The Vermont Country Store
The Vermont Country Store was established by Vrest and Ellen Orton in Weston, Vermont. Vrest Orton was inspired by the country stores of his childhood and wanted to recreate that environment for a modern audience. He focused on high-quality items that were becoming difficult to find in large department stores.
In 1946, the Ortons mailed out their first catalog, which was the first of its kind in the United States. It featured a curated selection of practical items and traditional Vermont products. Today, the business remains family-owned and operated by the third and fourth generations of the Orton family.
The store is often referred to as the “Purveyors of the Practical and Hard-to-Find.” This slogan reflects their commitment to sourcing products that evoke a sense of nostalgia while serving a functional purpose in the home.
Physical Store Locations
If you are traveling through Vermont, visiting the physical stores offers a unique step-back-in-time experience. There are two main locations, each offering a wide array of goods and a rustic atmosphere.
The Weston Store
The original store is located in Weston, Vermont. It is housed in a historic building and features creaky wooden floors, antique fixtures, and a wide variety of merchandise. Visitors can sample local cheeses, browse old-fashioned toys, and explore the extensive apothecary section.
The Weston location also features the Bryant House Restaurant right next door. This eatery serves traditional New England fare, allowing visitors to make a full day out of their trip to the store.
The Rockingham Store
Located on Route 103, the Rockingham store is easily accessible for travelers. Like the Weston location, it is filled with nostalgic items and features a large selection of Vermont-made products. It also houses the Mildred’s Dairy Bar, which is famous for its maple creemees and seasonal snacks.
Both stores are designed to be immersive. You will find museum-quality displays of old advertising and vintage tools interspersed with the modern products available for purchase.
What to Buy: Popular Product Categories
The Vermont Country Store is famous for carrying items that other retailers have discontinued. Their inventory spans several categories, ranging from household essentials to specialty foods.
Hard-to-Find Candy and Food
One of the most popular sections is the candy aisle. They carry classic sweets that many people remember from their youth, such as Necco Wafers, Bit-O-Honey, and various types of fudge. They also offer a wide selection of Vermont maple syrup, sharp cheddar cheese, and traditional baked goods.
- Penny Candy: A large selection of individual sweets sold by weight or in pre-packaged bags.
- Specialty Cheeses: Featuring wheels of Vermont cheddar aged to various degrees of sharpness.
- Baking Mixes: Traditional recipes for pancakes, muffins, and breads that are difficult to find elsewhere.
Apothecary and Personal Care
The apothecary section focuses on classic remedies and beauty products. You can find brands that have been trusted for generations but are no longer common on big-box store shelves. This includes specialized soaps, perfumes, and skin treatments like Bag Balm or Tangee lipstick.
They also stock a variety of sleep aids and comfort items, such as traditional nightgowns and high-quality cotton bedding. The focus here is on quality materials and proven formulas.
Home and Kitchen Goods
The store specializes in practical kitchen gadgets that simplify daily tasks. You will find manual egg beaters, specialized cleaning supplies, and durable linens. Many of these items are chosen for their longevity and classic design.
In addition to kitchenware, they offer home decor that fits a rustic or traditional aesthetic. This includes braided rugs, lace curtains, and seasonal decorations that reflect New England heritage.
How to Shop: Catalog and Online
While the physical stores are a major draw, most customers interact with The Vermont Country Store through their catalog or website. This allows people across the country to access their unique inventory.
The Iconic Catalog
The printed catalog remains a core part of the business. It is known for its hand-drawn illustrations and detailed product descriptions. Many customers enjoy reading the stories behind the products, which often include historical context or tips on how to use them.
You can request a free catalog through their website. They are mailed out seasonally, featuring new items and holiday specials throughout the year.
Online Shopping Experience
The Vermont Country Store website offers a modern shopping experience with the same nostalgic feel. The site is organized by category, making it easy to find specific items. They provide detailed customer reviews and clear photographs of all products.
When shopping online, you can also access “The Gazette,” a blog-style section that provides recipes, history, and lifestyle tips related to the products they sell.
Customer Service and Policies
The Vermont Country Store is known for its “No-Quibble Guarantee.” This policy ensures that customers are satisfied with their purchases. If an item does not meet expectations, the store typically offers a straightforward return or exchange process.
Shipping is available throughout the United States and to several international locations. They offer various shipping speeds, though standard shipping is the most common choice for their regular customers. During the holiday season, it is recommended to order early due to the high volume of catalog orders.
Why It Remains Relevant
In an era of digital dominance and fast fashion, The Vermont Country Store succeeds by focusing on quality and connection. They provide products that remind people of their past while offering utility for the present. By maintaining a family-owned structure, they have preserved the brand’s voice and commitment to traditional values.
For many, shopping here is not just about buying a product; it is about finding a piece of history or a reliable tool that will last for years. The store bridges the gap between the old world and the new, making it a reliable resource for shoppers of all ages.
Conclusion
The Vermont Country Store offers a unique blend of nostalgia, practicality, and high-quality goods. Whether you are visiting their historic locations in Vermont or browsing their famous catalog from home, you can find items that are difficult to locate anywhere else. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and traditional products makes them a trusted destination for everyday needs and special gifts.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on lifestyle and shopping tips. You might enjoy our guides on finding the best local farmers’ markets or how to source authentic vintage goods online to further enhance your shopping experience.